‘ECOWAS faced with conflicts that undermine stability, development’

Her Excellency Madam French made the remarks on Tuesday 28 May 2024 at Kairaba Beach Hotel as the ECOWAS Permanent Mission in The Gambia in collaboration with the government of The Gambia celebrated the 49th anniversary of the ECOWAS.

The purpose of the day was to commemorate ECOWAS’s founding, and to highlight its achievements, goals and ongoing efforts towards regional integration and development among others.

The theme for the commemoration which brought together members of the diplomatic and consular corps, government officials of The Gambia, ECOMIG members and ECOWAS representatives among others was ‘enhancing regional unity, peace and security’. The day also witnessed cultural displays by various ECOWAS Member States.

She added that the theme was timely and encouraged them to reflect on the status of the region as it is grappled with many issues that continue to threaten our growth.

“At 49, the region is faced with a number of conflicts and other challenges that continue to undermine stability and deter proper development,” she stated.

However, she said they still continue to make gains on a number of fronts as they strive to focus on solving the economic challenges.

“We are at a crucial cross roads and our unity is under threat. However 49 is middle age and strange things happen at mid life. We will continue to work to ensure that we are able to overcome these crisis and all people of the west African region continue to benefit from the dreams of those that signed the treaty 49 years ago,” she also said.

Tabara Touray-Sowe, director of Regional Integration and head of ECOWAS National Office, in deputising for the minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment of The Gambia, said that the day marks a significant milestone in their collective journey towards regional integration, economic development and social progress.

“Our founders envisaged a region where borders will be less of a barrier and more of a bridge facilitating the free movement of people, goods, services and capital,” she said, noting that over the past 49 years they have made remarkable strides towards the mission through the establishment of a market, ECOWAS biometric passport and the Identity Card as well as the free movement of goods and services and people across borders.

Ebrima Tambajang, human resources officer for ECOWAS Regional Competition Authority, said in 2007, ECOWAS adopted a Regional Competition Policy Framework (RCPF), articulating the purpose and basic principles of competition law and its many benefits to the Community Market and the regional integration process.

He added that the adoption of the Competition Rules and establishment of ERCA are essential steps toward achieving market efficiency, economic growth, and integration in West Africa which are fundamental objectives of ECOWAS.

Temidayo Balogun, charges d’affairs of the Nigeria High Commission to The Gambia, expressed gratitude to all those who attended the event. She also acknowledged their partners who contributed in making the day a success.